Best Maps for Ireland

by Christopher O'Keeffe July 19, 2026

Ireland is an island where ancient roads cross green valleys, mountain ranges fall towards the Atlantic, and every county carries its own sense of place. No single map can reveal it all. Travellers may need an all-island road map, a detailed touring atlas, separate coverage of Northern Ireland or the southern counties, a Dublin city plan, durable waterproof mapping for walking and coastal exploration, and a large wall map to understand how Ireland’s counties, rivers, mountains and coastlines shape the journey.

Ireland is compact enough to cross in a day, but too geographically rich to understand from one small screen.

Its motorways connect Dublin with Cork, Galway, Limerick and Belfast, yet many of its most memorable journeys follow smaller roads through peninsulas, mountain passes, Atlantic headlands, river valleys and historic towns.

An Irish itinerary may include:

• Dublin and Ireland’s Ancient East;

• Belfast and the Causeway Coastal Route;

• Cork, Kinsale and West Cork;

• Killarney and the Ring of Kerry;

• the Dingle Peninsula;

• Galway and Connemara;

• the Burren and Cliffs of Moher;

• Donegal and the far northwest;

• Sligo and Yeats Country;

• Waterford and the southeast;

• the Wicklow Mountains;

• the Wild Atlantic Way;

• a ferry journey connecting Ireland with Great Britain;

• a cruise calling at Dublin, Cork, Belfast or other Irish ports.

The island also contains two political jurisdictions: the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. A traveller moving between Dublin, Belfast, Donegal, Derry, Sligo or the Causeway Coast benefits from mapping that treats the island as one continuous geographic space while still showing the border, counties, road systems and principal cities clearly.

A complete Ireland mapping kit may therefore combine:

1. a current all-island road map;

2. a detailed road atlas for a longer self-drive journey;

3. waterproof mapping for outdoor use;

4. compact northern or southern regional mapping;

5. a city plan for Dublin;

6. a separate Northern Ireland map where the north is a major focus;

7. broader Britain and Ireland mapping for a multi-country journey;

8. offline digital navigation;

9. current road, ferry and weather information;

10. a wall map for planning, genealogy, education or display.

Explore Mapworld’s complete Great Britain and Ireland Maps and Guides collection and the extensive Wall Maps of Countries and Regions collection.

Mapworld’s Great Britain and Ireland range includes current folded road maps, waterproof adventure maps, road atlases, compact regional maps, Dublin city plans and modern and historical wall maps from Collins, Michelin, National Geographic, Hallwag, Borch and Oxford Cartographers.

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The Best Maps for Ireland: Quick Recommendations

Purpose	Best Mapworld option
Best current all-island road map	Ireland Collins Folded Map 2027
Best conventional touring map	Ireland Michelin Map 712
Best waterproof Ireland map	Ireland National Geographic Adventure Map
Best compact laminated map	Ireland Borch Folded Laminated Map
Best detailed road atlas currently available	Great Britain & Ireland Michelin Road Atlas
Best Ireland-only road atlas	Ireland Collins Road Atlas — check availability
Best map for Ireland and Britain together	Great Britain & Ireland Michelin Map 713
Best single-sided Britain and Ireland overview	Great Britain & Ireland Hallwag Map
Best map of Northern Ireland	Northern Ireland Collins Pocket Map
Best compact map of northern Ireland	Ireland Pocket Map North by Collins
Best compact map of southern Ireland	Ireland Pocket Map South by Collins
Best detailed Dublin visitor map	Dublin Borch Folded Laminated Map
Best broader Dublin street map	Dublin Streetfinder Collins Map
Best compact Dublin map	Dublin Pocket Map by Collins
Best dedicated Ireland wall map	Ireland National Geographic 762 × 914 mm Wall Map
Best decorative Ireland wall map	Ireland Executive National Geographic Wall Map
Best county-focused wall map	Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland 610 × 914 mm Wall Map
Best political British Isles wall map	UK & Ireland Political Map by Oxford Cartographers
Best classic Britain and Ireland wall map	Britain & Ireland Classic National Geographic Wall Map
Best executive Britain and Ireland wall map	Britain & Ireland Executive National Geographic Wall Map
Best historical Irish travel map	Ireland & Northern Ireland Visitor’s Guide — 1981
Best Irish history theme map	Historic Ireland — National Geographic 1981
Best mid-century British Isles map	British Isles — National Geographic 1958
Best vintage cultural travel map	A Traveler’s Map of the British Isles — 1974

For most first-time self-drive visitors, the strongest combination is:

• the Ireland Collins Folded Map 2027;

• the waterproof Ireland National Geographic Map;

• a Dublin city map;

• offline digital navigation;

• current road and local information.

For a longer road journey, add the Michelin Great Britain & Ireland Road Atlas.

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Why Ireland Requires More Than a Phone

Digital navigation is extremely useful in Ireland.

It can provide:

• live GPS positioning;

• turn-by-turn directions;

• traffic updates;

• accommodation locations;

• fuel stations;

• restaurant and pub searches;

• parking information;

• ferry terminals;

• public-transport directions;

• downloaded offline mapping.

But a phone remains dependent on:

• battery power;

• functioning hardware;

• mobile reception;

• correctly downloaded data;

• accurate road classifications;

• a screen large enough to understand the wider route.

A digital route may direct a traveller from Killarney to Dingle without communicating the geographic character of the peninsulas, mountain passes and coastal alternatives.

It may calculate a road between Galway and Donegal without revealing how Connemara, Clew Bay, Sligo and the Atlantic headlands fit together.

It may send a driver along a narrow rural lane because it is technically shorter, without making clear that a larger regional road may be easier or more appropriate.

A paper map keeps the complete journey visible.

It allows travellers to see:

• how Ireland’s motorways radiate from Dublin;

• where the main national roads connect regional cities;

• why travel along the west coast may take longer than distance alone suggests;

• how the Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula and Beara Peninsula differ;

• how Donegal connects with Northern Ireland;

• where the Causeway Coast lies in relation to Belfast and Derry;

• which ferry routes connect Ireland with Great Britain;

• where alternative roads exist when the planned route changes.

Read Paper Maps vs Google Maps: Which Is Better for Trip Planning? and GPS Disruption and Why Paper Maps Are a Strategic Necessity for a broader explanation of why printed maps remain useful beside digital navigation.

The strongest system is not paper instead of digital.

It is paper and digital together.

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1. Ireland Collins Folded Map 2027

The Best Current All-Island Road Map

The Ireland Collins Folded Map 2027 is the strongest starting map for most travellers.

Produced at 1:400,000, it covers every county in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland on a large sheet measuring approximately 992 × 890 mm unfolded.

Its mapping includes:

• motorways;

• national primary roads;

• national secondary roads;

• regional and minor roads;

• tourist routes;

• ferry ports;

• airports;

• rail connections;

• national parks;

• historic sites;

• major visitor attractions;

• distances between towns and cities.

The 2027 edition includes city-centre insets for:

• Dublin;

• Belfast;

• Cork;

• Galway;

• Limerick.

It is fully indexed and incorporates current road changes for the new edition.

Why It Is the Best Starting Point

A useful Ireland map must balance two competing demands.

It needs to show the complete island, but it must also leave enough room for secondary roads, regional towns and scenic touring routes.

The Collins map’s 1:400,000 scale is well suited to:

• complete island journeys;

• the Wild Atlantic Way;

• the Causeway Coastal Route;

• Dublin-to-Galway or Dublin-to-Cork travel;

• touring between cities and rural areas;

• planning a campervan itinerary;

• crossing between the Republic and Northern Ireland.

Best For

Choose the Collins 2027 map when:

• current road information is a priority;

• this is your first journey through Ireland;

• you want one map covering north and south;

• city insets are useful;

• the map will remain mainly in a vehicle;

• you prefer traditional folded-paper cartography.

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2. Ireland Michelin Map 712

The Best Conventional Touring Map

The Ireland Michelin Map 712 is an excellent alternative for travellers familiar with Michelin’s European road-map style.

It covers the complete island at 1:400,000, including the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Michelin highlights road hierarchy, scenic routes, tourist sites and driving distances while providing city insets for important centres such as Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Galway, Limerick and Derry.

Why Choose Michelin?

Michelin mapping is especially effective for motorists because it makes differences between roads easy to recognise.

That helps when comparing:

• major motorways with slower regional roads;

• direct routes with scenic alternatives;

• coastal and inland journeys;

• different approaches to national parks or peninsulas;

• realistic stages between cities.

A route-planning and distance table also helps identify itineraries that attempt to cover too much country in too little time.

Best For

Choose Michelin 712 when:

• driving is the principal form of transport;

• scenic routes matter;

• a classic European road map is preferred;

• you already use Michelin maps elsewhere;

• the journey includes both Ireland and Northern Ireland;

• the Ring of Kerry, Dingle, Donegal or the Wild Atlantic Way is central.

Collins or Michelin?

Choose Collins when:

• the newest edition is the main priority;

• you want an especially large unfolded sheet;

• city-centre insets for the principal Irish cities are important.

Choose Michelin when:

• road hierarchy and scenic-route presentation are the priority;

• you prefer Michelin’s touring symbols and map style;

• Ireland forms part of a wider European road journey.

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3. Ireland National Geographic Adventure Map

The Best Waterproof Map of Ireland

The Ireland National Geographic Folded Map is the strongest waterproof and field-ready option.

It covers the complete island at 1:385,000 and measures approximately 965 × 660 mm unfolded.

The double-sided map divides Ireland into overlapping northern and southern sections. Coverage includes:

• Dublin;

• Belfast;

• Derry;

• Galway;

• Cork;

• Limerick;

• Killarney;

• Waterford;

• Donegal;

• the Ring of Kerry;

• the Beara Peninsula;

• the Cliffs of Moher;

• the Giant’s Causeway;

• Wicklow Mountains;

• Killarney National Park;

• Glenveagh;

• the Burren.

It also identifies highways, main roads, rural roads, scenic routes, hiking locations, campsites, nature reserves, castles, ruins, ferry routes and cultural sites. The synthetic sheet is waterproof and tear resistant.

Why It Is Different

The Collins and Michelin maps are primarily road-touring products.

The National Geographic map gives more visual emphasis to:

• terrain;

• protected areas;

• recreation;

• physical geography;

• outdoor attractions;

• heritage sites.

Its waterproof construction makes it especially useful in a country where a map may be opened beside a road, on a ferry deck, at a campsite or during changing weather.

Best For

Choose the National Geographic map when:

• waterproofing matters;

• the journey includes walking or cycling;

• the map will be carried outside the vehicle;

• national parks are central;

• coastal touring is included;

• you want a durable backup to digital navigation.

Best Use

For a serious touring holiday, combine the National Geographic map with Collins 2027 or Michelin 712.

The road map provides the primary route framework.

The National Geographic map provides terrain, recreation and weather-resistant field use.

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4. Ireland Borch Folded Laminated Map

The Best Compact Laminated Map

The Ireland Borch Folded Laminated Map is the best compact wipe-clean choice.

The main map covers Ireland at 1:700,000, supported by detailed inset maps of:

• Dublin city centre at 1:15,000;

• Cork city centre at 1:8,000;

• Killarney National Park at 1:100,000;

• the Wicklow Mountains at 1:350,000;

• Irish administrative divisions.

The 18th edition folds to approximately 243 × 110 mm and uses a soft-laminated, water-resistant and wipe-clean finish.

Why It Is Useful

The Borch map is less detailed as a national road map than Collins, Michelin or National Geographic.

Its strength lies in portability and its useful insets.

It is particularly relevant when a journey includes:

• Dublin;

• Cork;

• Killarney;

• the Ring of Kerry;

• Wicklow;

• a combination of city and countryside travel.

Edition Consideration

The listed Borch edition dates from 2014.

It remains useful for broad orientation, physical geography and long-established road relationships, but it should not be relied upon alone for recent road changes or current transport information.

Use it as a compact companion to a newer national map.

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Road Atlases for Ireland

A folded map is the best way to see the whole island at once.

A road atlas provides more detail by spreading the country across multiple pages.

This becomes particularly valuable when:

• driving for several weeks;

• following minor roads;

• travelling by motorhome;

• exploring rural areas;

• visiting many small towns;

• searching for alternative routes.

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5. Great Britain & Ireland Michelin Road Atlas

The Best Detailed Atlas Currently Available

The Great Britain & Ireland Michelin Road Atlas is the strongest detailed atlas for a journey combining Ireland and Great Britain.

The A4 spiral-bound atlas contains 190 pages of mapping at 1:300,000.

It includes:

• motorways;

• principal roads;

• secondary roads;

• minor connecting roads;

• highlighted scenic routes;

• route-planning information;

• a comprehensive place index;

• 52 town and city maps.

Irish city coverage includes Dublin, Belfast, Cork and other important centres. The spiral binding allows the atlas to remain open inside a vehicle or on a planning table.

Best For

Choose it when:

• the trip includes Ireland, Scotland, Wales or England;

• travelling by ferry between the islands;

• detailed road coverage is required;

• a spiral-bound atlas is preferred;

• minor roads and small settlements matter;

• a long touring or motorhome holiday is planned.

For broader British planning, read Best Maps for the United Kingdom.

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6. Ireland Collins Road Atlas

The Best Ireland-Only Atlas When Available

The Ireland Collins Road Atlas is dedicated entirely to Ireland.

Its principal mapping is produced at approximately 1:330,000, with an all-island route-planning map and street plans of 11 towns and cities, including:

• Dublin;

• Belfast;

• Cork;

• Galway;

• Limerick;

• Derry;

• Waterford;

• Killarney;

• Drogheda;

• Bangor;

• Dún Laoghaire.

It also includes tourist attractions, ferry routes, airports, county boundaries, terrain shading and distance information.

At the time of review, the Collins Ireland atlas was listed as sold out.

Check its product page for renewed availability. The Michelin Great Britain and Ireland atlas is the strongest currently listed alternative.

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Maps for Ireland and Great Britain Together

Many travellers combine Ireland with England, Scotland or Wales.

A combined map helps explain:

• ferry routes across the Irish Sea;

• the relationship between Dublin, Belfast, Liverpool and Holyhead;

• routes between Ireland and Scotland;

• the position of the Isle of Man;

• how Ireland fits within the wider archipelago.

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7. Great Britain & Ireland Michelin Map 713

The Great Britain & Ireland Michelin Map 713 covers the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales at 1:1,000,000.

It includes major and regional roads, ferry crossings, scenic routes, national parks and the principal cities across both islands.

Best For

Choose it when:

• travelling in Ireland and Great Britain;

• arriving or departing by ferry;

• Ireland is one stage of a longer UK journey;

• a broad geographic overview is more important than local road detail;

• comparing several countries on one map.

Use a dedicated Ireland map for daily driving on the island.

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8. Great Britain & Ireland Hallwag Map

The Best Large Single-Sided Overview

The Great Britain & Ireland Hallwag Map presents the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland on one continuous side.

Produced at 1:850,000, the map measures approximately 1300 × 1000 mm and shows major highways, regional roads, scenic routes, ferries, distances and the principal geographical relationships of the British Isles.

Best For

Choose it when:

• a large planning surface is preferred;

• the complete British Isles itinerary should remain visible;

• travelling by motorhome;

• using the map for education or genealogy;

• planning journeys between Ireland, Scotland, Wales and England.

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Maps for Ireland’s Main Touring Routes

The Wild Atlantic Way

The Wild Atlantic Way follows Ireland’s western seaboard through a succession of peninsulas, bays, cliffs, islands, villages and historic ports.

A suitable map must show more than the coastal line itself.

It should reveal how the western road network connects with:

• Cork and Kerry;

• Dingle;

• Clare;

• Galway and Connemara;

• Mayo;

• Sligo;

• Donegal;

• inland towns and alternative routes.

The strongest options are:

• Ireland Collins Folded Map 2027;

• Ireland Michelin Map 712;

• Ireland National Geographic Map;

• a road atlas for greater detail.

Collins and Michelin provide the clearest road-planning framework.

National Geographic is particularly useful for terrain, parks and outdoor locations.

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The Ring of Kerry, Dingle and West Cork

Southwest Ireland contains some of the island’s most intricate touring geography.

A journey may combine:

• Killarney;

• Killarney National Park;

• the Ring of Kerry;

• the Dingle Peninsula;

• the Beara Peninsula;

• Kenmare;

• Bantry;

• Kinsale;

• Cork.

The best primary map is Collins 2027 or Michelin 712.

The Borch Ireland map is a useful compact supplement because it includes dedicated Killarney National Park coverage at 1:100,000.

The National Geographic map adds waterproof field durability and clear physical context around the mountains and peninsulas.

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Galway, Connemara and the Burren

A western Ireland itinerary may include:

• Galway;

• Clifden;

• Connemara;

• Kylemore;

• the Aran Islands;

• the Burren;

• the Cliffs of Moher;

• County Clare.

A national road map helps reveal how the deeply indented coast and inland lakes shape the journey.

The National Geographic map is particularly useful because it marks scenic locations, national parks, natural areas, ferry routes and outdoor attractions throughout the region.

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Donegal and the Northwest

Donegal is often combined with:

• Sligo;

• Derry;

• the northern Atlantic coast;

• Northern Ireland;

• the Causeway Coastal Route.

An all-island map is especially useful because the most practical journey may cross between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Carry:

• Collins 2027 or Michelin 712;

• National Geographic Ireland for waterproof use;

• the Northern Ireland Collins map where the itinerary continues east.

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Dublin and Ireland’s Ancient East

For a journey based in Dublin and extending through eastern and southeastern Ireland, carry:

• Collins 2027 or Michelin 712;

• a Dublin city map;

• a road atlas for smaller roads;

• the Borch Ireland map where the Wicklow Mountains inset is useful.

The wider region may include:

• Wicklow;

• Glendalough;

• Kilkenny;

• Waterford;

• Wexford;

• Newgrange and the Boyne Valley;

• historic towns and monastic sites.

A Dublin map handles the city.

A national or atlas map handles the journey beyond it.

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Northern Ireland and the Causeway Coast

Northern Ireland requires more detailed mapping when it is more than a short excursion from Dublin.

A complete northern itinerary may include:

• Belfast;

• the Antrim Coast;

• Giant’s Causeway;

• Carrick-a-Rede;

• Derry;

• the Glens of Antrim;

• the Mourne Mountains;

• Lough Neagh;

• Fermanagh;

• the border counties.

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9. Northern Ireland Pocket Map by Collins

The Best Dedicated Map of Northern Ireland

The Northern Ireland Pocket Map by Collins covers all six counties at 1:150,000 on a sheet measuring approximately 720 × 560 mm.

It includes:

• detailed road mapping;

• cities, towns and villages;

• natural features;

• attractions;

• scenic areas;

• visitor information;

• accommodation and services.

Its greater scale provides substantially more Northern Ireland detail than an all-island map.

Best For

Choose it when:

• Northern Ireland is a principal destination;

• driving the Causeway Coast;

• visiting Belfast and Derry;

• travelling through the Mourne Mountains;

• exploring Fermanagh or the Glens of Antrim;

• tracing family connections in the six counties.

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10. Ireland Pocket Map North by Collins

The Ireland Pocket Map North by Collins combines Northern Ireland with the northern counties of the Republic, including Donegal and routes towards Dublin.

This makes it particularly useful for:

• Belfast and Dublin combinations;

• Donegal and Derry;

• the Causeway Coast;

• Sligo;

• cross-border family-history research;

• compact northern touring.

Choose the dedicated Northern Ireland map for greater local detail.

Choose the Ireland North map when the journey crosses the border repeatedly.

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11. Ireland Pocket Map South by Collins

The Ireland Pocket Map South by Collins covers the southern half of the island, including:

• Dublin;

• Cork;

• Kerry;

• Limerick;

• Waterford;

• Kilkenny;

• the southwest;

• much of the central and southern road network.

It is designed as a compact regional reference for road trips, city breaks, walking holidays and ancestry travel.

Best For

Choose it when:

• the journey remains south of Galway and Dublin;

• Cork and Kerry are the main destinations;

• luggage space is limited;

• a small regional companion to a national map is preferred.

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City Maps of Dublin

A national road map can show the approach to Dublin.

It cannot provide the detail needed for:

• central streets;

• walking routes;

• public transport;

• individual neighbourhoods;

• Dublin Airport approaches;

• accommodation locations;

• navigating outside the immediate centre.

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12. Dublin Borch Folded Laminated Map

The Best Compact Detailed Dublin Map

The Dublin Borch Folded Laminated Map combines several scales:

• central Dublin at 1:12,000;

• Temple Bar and Grafton Street at 1:10,000;

• Phoenix Park at 1:25,000;

• Dublin and environs at 1:125,000;

• the east coast of Ireland at 1:700,000;

• a Dublin public-transport diagram.

It is soft laminated, waterproof, tear resistant and wipeable, folding to approximately 243 × 110 mm.

Best For

Choose it when:

• walking through central Dublin;

• using buses, trams or trains;

• visiting Temple Bar, Trinity College or Grafton Street;

• staying several days in the city;

• a compact and durable day-bag map is preferred.

The listed edition dates from 2018, so current public-transport and street information should be checked separately.

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13. Dublin Streetfinder Collins Map

The Best Broader Dublin Street Map

The Dublin Streetfinder Collins Map extends beyond the historic centre into surrounding suburbs and approach routes.

Coverage includes:

• Dublin Airport and northern suburbs;

• Phoenix Park and western districts;

• the city centre;

• Temple Bar;

• Trinity College;

• Grafton Street;

• O’Connell Street;

• southern suburbs including Rathmines and Dundrum;

• coastal neighbourhoods.

Best For

Choose the Streetfinder when:

• driving within Greater Dublin;

• accommodation lies outside the centre;

• navigating between the airport, suburbs and city;

• wider metropolitan coverage matters more than pocket size.

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14. Dublin Pocket Map by Collins

The Dublin Pocket Map by Collins is the smallest and simplest city option.

It covers central Dublin from Phoenix Park and the River Liffey through Trinity College, St Stephen’s Green and the Docklands, while marking visitor attractions, historic sites, accommodation, restaurants, pubs and cafés.

Choose it for:

• a short city stay;

• lightweight walking use;

• general visitor orientation;

• travellers who do not need the wider metropolitan detail of the Streetfinder.

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Building the Ideal Ireland Map Kit

First Visit: Dublin, Galway, Kerry and Cork

Carry:

• Ireland Collins Folded Map 2027;

• Ireland National Geographic Map;

• Dublin Borch Map;

• a detailed road atlas where the journey is longer;

• offline navigation.

The Collins map provides the national road framework.

National Geographic supplies waterproof terrain and attraction coverage.

The Dublin map handles the city.

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Complete Wild Atlantic Way

Carry:

• Collins 2027 or Michelin 712;

• National Geographic Ireland;

• Michelin or Collins road atlas;

• Ireland North and South compact maps where desired;

• current accommodation, ferry and road information.

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Dublin, Belfast and the Causeway Coast

Carry:

• Ireland Collins Map;

• Northern Ireland Collins Map;

• Dublin City Map;

• current urban and transport information.

The all-island map explains the complete route.

The Northern Ireland map supplies greater detail once north of the border.

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Cork, Kerry and the Southwest

Carry:

• Collins 2027 or Michelin 712;

• National Geographic Ireland;

• Borch Ireland for its Cork and Killarney insets;

• a road atlas for rural and secondary roads.

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Ireland and Scotland

Carry:

• Great Britain & Ireland Michelin Map 713;

• Great Britain & Ireland Michelin Road Atlas;

• a dedicated Ireland map;

• a detailed Scotland map.

Read Best Maps for the United Kingdom for advice on Scotland, England, Wales and Britain-wide mapping.

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Ireland and Iceland

Ireland may form part of a broader North Atlantic journey involving Iceland, Scotland or northern Europe.

Carry:

• a detailed Ireland map;

• Great Britain and Ireland regional mapping;

• dedicated Iceland mapping;

• the current flight, ferry or cruise itinerary.

Read Best Maps for Iceland for national road, waterproof, Reykjavík and Arctic mapping.

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Ireland and Spain

Ireland and Spain can be combined through air travel, ferry-based touring or a wider European itinerary.

Read Best Maps for Spain for national road maps, Michelin regional sheets, city maps and the Camino de Santiago.

The Camino article may also interest travellers exploring Ireland’s monastic, pilgrimage and walking heritage: Best Maps and Guides for the Camino de Santiago.

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Cruising Around Ireland and the British Isles

Cruise itineraries may include:

• Dublin;

• Cork or Cobh;

• Belfast;

• Waterford;

• Galway;

• British ports;

• Iceland or northern Europe.

A useful cruise map kit may include:

• an all-island Ireland map;

• Great Britain and Ireland Michelin or Hallwag mapping;

• the cruise operator’s current itinerary;

• city mapping for longer port visits.

Read Best Maps for Cruising for a wider explanation of how regional maps transform a list of ports into one connected journey.

Travel maps are geographic references for passengers.

They are not official nautical charts for navigating a vessel.

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Wall Maps of Ireland

A folded map is designed to travel.

A wall map is designed to keep the whole island visible.

Ireland wall maps are particularly useful for:

• planning a road journey;

• genealogy and family-history research;

• marking ancestral counties;

• classrooms and universities;

• travel agencies;

• Irish cultural organisations;

• libraries;

• offices;

• displaying a completed journey;

• giving a meaningful heritage gift.

Browse the Wall Maps of Countries and Regions collection.

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15. Ireland National Geographic 762 × 914 mm Wall Map

The Best Dedicated Modern Wall Map of Ireland

The Ireland National Geographic 762 × 914 mm Wall Map is the strongest modern wall map dedicated to Ireland.

Published in 2019 and made in Australia, it uses National Geographic’s Classic styling and is available in:

• paper;

• laminated;

• laminated with timber hang rails;

• canvas;

• canvas with timber hang rails.

Best For

Choose it when:

• Ireland is the principal wall-map subject;

• planning an all-island journey;

• tracing counties and family connections;

• furnishing a study, library or classroom;

• a clear contemporary map is preferred;

• marking places visited with map dots.

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16. Ireland Executive Antique Style Wall Map

The Best Decorative Ireland Wall Map

The Ireland Executive Antique Style National Geographic Wall Map presents modern mapping in muted earth tones.

It measures 762 × 914 mm, is produced at approximately 1:1,100,000 and includes the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Place names are presented in English and Irish, with roads, railways, counties, towns and cultural locations incorporated into the design.

Best For

Choose it for:

• traditional studies;

• libraries;

• heritage rooms;

• executive offices;

• interiors with timber furniture;

• a decorative map that retains modern reference value.

Choose the Classic map for a brighter educational appearance.

Choose the Executive map for warmer, more traditional presentation.

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17. Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland Wall Map

The Best Map for Counties and All-Island Context

The Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland 610 × 914 mm Wall Map clearly delineates counties across the Republic and the six counties of Northern Ireland.

It also marks major and regional towns, including Dublin, Cork, Galway and Belfast, while showing the island’s coastlines, offshore islands and physical relief.

Best For

Choose it when:

• county boundaries are particularly important;

• tracing ancestry;

• teaching Irish political and regional geography;

• marking family origins;

• a narrower portrait-format wall map is preferred.

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18. UK & Ireland Political Map by Oxford Cartographers

The Best Large Political Map of the British Isles

The UK & Ireland Political Wall Map by Oxford Cartographers is available in two sizes:

• Standard: 594 × 841 mm;

• Large: approximately 1100 × 1540 mm.

Each county is separately coloured, making administrative and political divisions easy to identify. The map includes the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales, together with towns, cities, major roads and selected physical features.

Best For

Choose it when:

• Ireland needs to be shown beside the United Kingdom;

• county identification matters;

• the map is for a classroom or cultural organisation;

• a major wall display is required;

• family connections extend across Britain and Ireland.

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19. Britain & Ireland Classic National Geographic Wall Map

The Britain & Ireland Classic National Geographic Wall Map combines Ireland with England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in National Geographic’s bright Classic style.

It is especially useful for:

• wider British Isles travel;

• family-history research;

• schools;

• ferry and cruise planning;

• travellers with connections on both islands.

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20. Britain & Ireland Executive Wall Map

The Britain & Ireland Executive National Geographic Wall Map presents the same wider region in antique-inspired colours.

It includes counties, political divisions, cities, smaller settlements and shaded physical relief across Britain and Ireland.

Choose it when:

• a decorative British Isles map is preferred;

• family history spans Ireland and Great Britain;

• the map is for a study, library or office;

• warmer earth tones suit the room.

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Historical Maps of Ireland

Historical maps should not be used for modern road navigation.

They can, however, reveal Ireland through:

• changing transport networks;

• historic county structures;

• cultural landmarks;

• tourism development;

• political history;

• literature and pilgrimage;

• family and migration history.

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21. Ireland & Northern Ireland Visitor’s Guide — 1981

The Best Historical Travel Map of Ireland

The Ireland & Northern Ireland Visitor’s Guide published in 1981 by National Geographic combines cartography with notes on historic places, towns, culture and the Irish landscape.

Published in April 1981, it was designed as a companion to National Geographic’s Historic Ireland theme map and a series of feature articles.

Best For

Choose it when:

• travel history is the main interest;

• the recipient remembers Ireland in the 1980s;

• National Geographic maps are being collected;

• the map is for a library or study;

• cultural annotations matter as much as roads and boundaries.

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22. Historic Ireland — National Geographic 1981

The Historic Ireland Theme Map presents the island’s history through a concise combination of geography, events and cultural information.

It was produced to complement the 1981 Visitor’s Guide and associated National Geographic articles.

Best For

Choose it when:

• Irish history is the main subject;

• the map is for a school or university;

• the Visitor’s Guide will be displayed beside it;

• genealogy has encouraged a deeper interest in the island’s past;

• a compact historical wall feature is preferred.

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23. British Isles — National Geographic 1958

The British Isles Map published in 1958 by National Geographic provides a mid-century portrait of Ireland and Great Britain.

It shows counties, cities, settlements, coastlines and the wider island group, supported by city insets and supplementary panels.

Best For

Choose it when:

• mid-century cartography is preferred;

• Ireland and Britain need to be displayed together;

• the map is for a collector, library or heritage room;

• family migration between the islands is being researched.

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24. A Traveler’s Map of the British Isles — 1974

The Traveler’s Map of the British Isles was published by National Geographic in 1974.

The 578 × 829 mm map combines geography with tourist sites, cultural landmarks, historic regions and literary associations across Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales.

Best For

Choose it when:

• the recipient loves Irish and British literature;

• the map is primarily decorative;

• cultural travel is the main interest;

• a vintage National Geographic gift is desired;

• Ireland forms part of a wider British Isles story.

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Wall-Map Finishes

Many Mapworld Ireland wall maps are available in several professionally produced formats.

Paper

Paper maps are printed on premium 160 gsm matte stock.

Paper is best for:

• framing under glass;

• mounting on a board;

• pinning permanent locations;

• collectors;

• lower-cost display.

Laminated

Laminated maps use true encapsulation with 2 × 80-micron gloss laminate.

A laminated map provides:

• increased durability;

• a wipe-clean surface;

• protection from moisture;

• compatibility with suitable whiteboard markers;

• compatibility with removable map dots.

Laminated Ireland maps are particularly useful for marking:

• road-trip routes;

• counties visited;

• ancestral towns;

• accommodation;

• future travel plans;

• business or organisational locations.

Laminated with Timber Hang Rails

Natural timber rails at the top and bottom create a ready-to-hang planning or display map.

Canvas

Canvas maps are printed on 395 gsm HP Professional Matte Canvas using pigment-based inks.

Canvas offers:

• reduced glare;

• a softer decorative appearance;

• fade-resistant printing;

• an alternative to framing under glass.

Canvas with Timber Hang Rails

Canvas maps can also be fitted with natural timber rails and hanging cord.

Please allow up to 10 working days for hang-railed maps because each is professionally mounted. Mapworld’s Ireland and UK wall-map listings detail these finishes across the National Geographic, Collins and Oxford ranges.

Read:

• What Size Wall Map Do I Need?;

• Amazing Canvas Maps;

• The Beauty of Hang Rails.

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Paper, Laminated, Waterproof or Atlas?

Folded Paper Maps

Choose folded paper when:

• the map will remain mainly in a vehicle;

• a current traditional road map is required;

• permanent notes will be made;

• weight and storage space matter;

• several maps will be carried.

The Collins 2027 and Michelin 712 maps are the strongest conventional choices.

Waterproof Synthetic Maps

Choose National Geographic when:

• the map will be used outdoors;

• walking or cycling is involved;

• the journey includes exposed coasts or mountain areas;

• repeated folding is expected;

• a durable emergency backup is required.

Soft-Laminated Borch Maps

Choose Borch when:

• compact folded size matters;

• city and national-park insets are useful;

• a wipe-clean map is preferred;

• the product will supplement a newer national map.

Road Atlases

Choose an atlas when:

• driving for an extended period;

• exploring smaller roads;

• travelling by campervan or motorhome;

• detailed daily route planning matters;

• the atlas needs to remain open inside the vehicle.

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Current Information Still Matters

A printed map can show that a road, ferry route or border crossing exists.

It cannot tell you:

• whether roadworks have created a delay;

• whether severe weather has affected a route;

• whether a ferry sailing has changed;

• whether a visitor site requires advance booking;

• whether parking regulations have changed;

• whether a walking trail is temporarily closed;

• whether public transport is disrupted.

Before each major stage, check current information from:

• road and transport authorities;

• ferry operators;

• public-transport providers;

• national parks;

• accommodation providers;

• official weather services;

• local visitor centres.

Tourism Ireland’s official visitor site provides current travel-planning information for the island, including routes, transport and destination guidance.

Use the paper map to understand the geography.

Use current information to decide how the next stage should be travelled.

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Why Paper Maps Still Matter in Ireland

Ireland is a place where the journey often matters as much as the destination.

Its memorable roads follow:

• Atlantic coastlines;

• mountain passes;

• river valleys;

• glacial lakes;

• historic county boundaries;

• peninsulas;

• rural lanes;

• old routes between market towns.

A digital map may identify the quickest road.

A printed map helps travellers notice:

• the alternative coastal road;

• the peninsula that deserves a full day;

• the mountain range behind the town;

• the ferry connecting an island;

• the historic place just beyond the planned route;

• how the next county fits within the wider journey.

Digital navigation answers:

Where is my next turn?

A paper map answers:

Where does this road belong within Ireland?

That wider understanding turns a sequence of hotel bookings into a coherent journey through the island.

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Why Buy Ireland Maps from Mapworld?

The Mapworld Great Britain and Ireland collection extends far beyond one general Ireland map.

It includes:

• Collins 2027 national mapping;

• Michelin Ireland road maps;

• waterproof National Geographic mapping;

• laminated Borch maps;

• Ireland road atlases;

• Great Britain and Ireland maps and atlases;

• compact northern and southern maps;

• dedicated Northern Ireland mapping;

• Dublin city maps;

• contemporary Ireland wall maps;

• county-focused maps;

• Britain and Ireland wall maps;

• historical and cultural maps.

The Wall Maps of Countries and Regions collection adds modern, political, decorative and historical maps in paper, laminated, canvas and timber hang-railed finishes.

A general retailer may offer one small road map labelled Ireland.

Mapworld provides the national, atlas, city, waterproof, regional, wall and historical layers required to understand the island properly.

Read Why Specialist Map Shops Remain Important and Mapworld and the Travel Industry for more on specialist map selection and itinerary planning.

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Complete Mapworld Ireland Map Directory

National Ireland Maps

• Ireland Collins Folded Map 2027

• Ireland Michelin Map 712

• Ireland National Geographic Folded Map

• Ireland Borch Folded Laminated Map

Road Atlases

• Great Britain & Ireland Michelin Road Atlas

• Ireland Collins Road Atlas — check availability

Britain and Ireland Maps

• Great Britain & Ireland Michelin Map 713

• Great Britain & Ireland Hallwag Map

Northern and Southern Ireland Maps

• Northern Ireland Pocket Map by Collins

• Ireland Pocket Map North by Collins

• Ireland Pocket Map South by Collins

Dublin Maps

• Dublin Borch Folded Laminated Map

• Dublin Streetfinder Collins Map

• Dublin Pocket Map by Collins

Modern Ireland Wall Maps

• Ireland National Geographic 762 × 914 mm Wall Map

• Ireland Executive Antique Style National Geographic Wall Map

• Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland 610 × 914 mm Wall Map

Britain and Ireland Wall Maps

• UK & Ireland Political Map by Oxford Cartographers

• Britain & Ireland Classic National Geographic Wall Map

• Britain & Ireland Executive National Geographic Wall Map

Historical Ireland Maps

• Ireland & Northern Ireland Visitor’s Guide — National Geographic 1981

• Historic Ireland Theme Map — National Geographic 1981

• British Isles — National Geographic 1958

• A Traveler’s Map of the British Isles — National Geographic 1974

Relevant Collections

• Great Britain and Ireland Maps and Guides

• Wall Maps of Countries and Regions

• Europe Maps and Guides

• Historical Maps

• Vintage National Geographic Maps

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Related Mapworld Articles

Continue planning with:

• Best Maps for the United Kingdom — useful for journeys combining Ireland with England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.

• Best Maps for Iceland — relevant for North Atlantic journeys and cruises linking Ireland, Britain and Iceland.

• Best Maps for Spain — useful for wider European touring and travellers interested in pilgrimage routes.

• Best Maps and Guides for the Camino de Santiago — a detailed guide to one of Europe’s great walking and pilgrimage networks.

• Best Maps for Cruising — relevant for Dublin, Cork, Belfast, British Isles and North Atlantic cruises.

• Best Maps of France — useful when Ireland forms part of a longer western European journey.

• Paper Maps vs Google Maps: Which Is Better for Trip Planning?.

• GPS Disruption and Why Paper Maps Are a Strategic Necessity.

• Mapworld and the Travel Industry.

• What Size Wall Map Do I Need?.

• Amazing Canvas Maps.

• The Beauty of Hang Rails.

• Why Specialist Map Shops Remain Important.

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Final Verdict

The best map for Ireland depends on the journey.

Best Current All-Island Map

The Ireland Collins Folded Map 2027 is the strongest starting choice for most travellers.

It provides current 1:400,000 road mapping, complete coverage of the Republic and Northern Ireland and city-centre insets for Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Galway and Limerick.

Best Conventional Touring Map

The Ireland Michelin Map 712 is the strongest alternative for motorists who prefer Michelin road hierarchy, scenic-route information and driving-distance tools.

Best Waterproof Map

The Ireland National Geographic Adventure Map is the best field-ready option.

It is waterproof, tear resistant and especially useful for national parks, coastal routes, walking and outdoor travel.

Best Compact Laminated Map

The Ireland Borch Map is the best small wipe-clean option, with useful insets for Dublin, Cork, Killarney and Wicklow.

Its older edition means it should supplement rather than replace a current road map.

Best Road Atlas

The Great Britain & Ireland Michelin Road Atlas is the strongest detailed atlas currently listed, particularly for a journey combining Ireland and Great Britain.

The Collins Ireland Road Atlas is the best dedicated all-Ireland atlas when available.

Best Northern Ireland Map

The Northern Ireland Collins Pocket Map supplies the strongest dedicated coverage at 1:150,000.

Best Dublin Map

The Dublin Borch Map is the strongest compact visitor map.

The Dublin Streetfinder is better for wider metropolitan and airport coverage.

Best Britain and Ireland Map

The Great Britain & Ireland Michelin Map 713 is the best conventional regional choice.

The Hallwag map offers a larger single-sided overview.

Best Ireland Wall Map

The Ireland National Geographic 762 × 914 mm Wall Map is the strongest contemporary dedicated map.

Best Decorative Wall Map

The Ireland Executive National Geographic Wall Map provides modern information in a warmer antique-inspired design.

Best County and Genealogy Map

The Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland Wall Map is particularly useful for county reference and tracing family connections.

Best Historical Map

The Ireland & Northern Ireland Visitor’s Guide from 1981 is the strongest historical travel map.

The Historic Ireland Theme Map is the better choice for a concise cultural and historical overview.

Best Complete Ireland Map Kit

For a substantial Ireland journey, carry:

• one current all-island road map;

• one waterproof adventure map;

• a road atlas for greater detail;

• a dedicated Northern Ireland map where relevant;

• a Dublin city plan;

• offline digital navigation;

• current road, ferry and weather information.

Ireland rewards travellers who look beyond the next instruction.

The right maps will not widen a narrow country road, clear mist from a mountain pass or guarantee that a ferry sails on time.

They will, however, help travellers understand:

• how the counties and regions fit together;

• why Atlantic and eastern Ireland feel so different;

• how the Republic and Northern Ireland form one geographic island;

• where major roads give way to slower coastal routes;

• how Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Galway and Limerick connect;

• when a national, atlas, city, waterproof, regional or wall map is required.

Across an island shaped by coast, history, language and landscape, that wider understanding is invaluable.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best overall road map of Ireland?

The Ireland Collins Folded Map 2027 is the strongest current all-island map.

What is the best Michelin map of Ireland?

The Ireland Michelin Map 712 covers the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland at 1:400,000.

What is the best waterproof map of Ireland?

The Ireland National Geographic Adventure Map is waterproof and tear resistant.

What is the best map for the Wild Atlantic Way?

Use Collins 2027 or Michelin 712 for road planning, supported by the waterproof National Geographic Ireland map.

What is the best map for the Ring of Kerry?

The Collins and Michelin national maps are the strongest primary road choices. The Borch Ireland map includes a useful Killarney National Park inset.

What is the best map for Northern Ireland?

The Northern Ireland Collins Pocket Map provides detailed 1:150,000 coverage.

What is the best map for Dublin?

The Dublin Borch Map is best for compact city use. The Dublin Streetfinder provides wider metropolitan coverage.

What is the best road atlas for Ireland?

The Great Britain & Ireland Michelin Road Atlas is the strongest currently available detailed atlas.

Does one map cover the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland?

Yes. The Collins, Michelin, National Geographic and Borch Ireland maps all provide all-island coverage.

What is the best map for Ireland and Britain together?

The Great Britain & Ireland Michelin Map 713 is the strongest conventional folded option.

What is the best wall map of Ireland?

The Ireland National Geographic 762 × 914 mm Wall Map is the strongest contemporary dedicated wall map.

What is the best Ireland map for genealogy?

The Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland Wall Map clearly shows counties across the island.

Are Ireland wall maps available laminated?

Yes. Selected maps are available in paper, laminated, laminated with timber hang rails, canvas and canvas with timber hang rails.

Can laminated Ireland maps be written on?

Yes. Suitable whiteboard markers can be used and wiped clean.

Can removable map dots be used?

Yes. Map dots are useful for marking routes, counties, ancestral towns, accommodation and places visited.

Are Ireland wall maps available on canvas?

Yes. Selected maps are printed on 395 gsm HP Professional Matte Canvas using pigment-based inks.

Can Ireland maps be supplied with timber hang rails?

Selected laminated and canvas maps can be fitted with natural timber hang rails and hanging cord.

How long do hang-railed maps take?

Please allow up to 10 working days because each hang-railed map is professionally mounted.

Does Mapworld sell historical maps of Ireland?

Yes. Mapworld stocks the 1981 Ireland and Northern Ireland Visitor’s Guide, the Historic Ireland theme map, the 1958 British Isles map and the 1974 Traveler’s Map of the British Isles.

Where can I buy Ireland maps in Australia?

Mapworld stocks folded road maps, waterproof maps, road atlases, Dublin maps, Northern Ireland maps, wall maps and historical maps of Ireland with Australia-wide delivery.

Written by Christopher O’Keeffe
Managing Director of Mapworld and specialist in maps, navigation and cartographic products.

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